---
title: "Living Swell — Interior Designers & Decorators | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/living-swell-pfvwus-pf~126006928
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~126006928.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "Living Swell"
category: ["Interior Designers & Decorators"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/fbc3bd3600accdeb_5486-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg
address: "154 Washington St, Marblehead, Massachusetts 01945, United States"
latitude: 42.4984
longitude: -70.8653
phone: "(781) 675-1185"
website: http://
rating: 4.9
review_count: 11
years_in_business: 25
best_of_houzz_awards: 3
followers: 137
last_updated: 2026-08-14
---

# Living Swell

> Marblehead, Massachusetts' Comprehensive Interior Design Firm

Original Houzz profile: [Living Swell](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/living-swell-pfvwus-pf~126006928)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Interior Designers & Decorators
- **Location:** Marblehead, MA
- **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (11 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2019–2023), for Service.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Houzz Pro Software User
- Recommended on Houzz
- 250 Ideabook Saves
- Best of Houzz winner
- Award winning
- 25 years in business
- Provides 3D Visualization

### Business highlights

- Best of Houzz winner
- 25 years in business
- Award winning
- Provides 3D Visualization

We are a full service interior design firm known for creating beautiful spaces with sophisticated functionality. East Coast Design's in-house workroom produces custom drapery, pillows & more.

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | Living Swell |
| Address | 154 Washington St, Marblehead, Massachusetts 01945, United States |
| Phone | (781) 675-1185 |
| Website | http:// |
| Years in business | 25 |
| Followers on Houzz | 137 |

**Social profiles:**
- Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/Livingswellmarblehead/
- LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianajames/

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [Living Swell](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/living-swell-pfvwus-pf~126006928)
- **Website:** http://
- **Phone:** (781) 675-1185

## Credentials

- **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2019–2023), for Service.

## Reviews

**Overall rating: 4.9 out of 5 — 11 reviews**

*Aspect averages:*
- Work Quality: 50.0
- Communication: 50.0
- Value: 48.0

### All 11 reviews

**★★★★★ — ksdonlan, Jan. 2025**

> Diana and her team transformed our entryway, powder room, living room and dining area into rich, textured and absolutely gorgeous spaces that we appreciate every minute we spend there.  Her eye for color, style and beauty is magnificent, and we trust her with the knowledge that she will deliver the best there is!   Thank you Diana, we love, love, love our new surroundings!

**Comment from Living Swell:**

> Thank you, K! Such a pleasure working with you as well.

**★★★★★ — HU-735547705, March 2022**

> We enthusiastically recommend Diana @ East Coast Design to anyone interested in reimagining/refreshing their living space.  Diana was a joy to work with.  Her process is clear, collaborative and not overwhelming.  Her design sense allows "elegant" to still be inviting and comfortable.  Natural light now highlights our new (coastal) color pallet and lighter floors- and brings a warmth and lightness to our home that we haven't had in our fifteen years here.  After just a few weeks in our "new" home, we already view this design project as an investment in ourselves and our quality of life.  Thank you so much, Diana!

**Comment from Living Swell:**

> It was such a pleasure working with you, Linne. I am so pleased that you enjoyed the process and results as much as I did. ❤️

**★★★★★ — pspeziale, Nov. 2021**

> East Coast Design, led by Diana James, has decorated my home, my office and my mother’s condominium. I feel well qualified to provide this recommendation and I am delighted to do so.  My wife, my mother, and I have enjoyed working with Diana and her team immensely. Here’s some of the reasons why:
>
> 1\. Diana is a visionary artist—her canvas is your home. She is a brilliant interior designer.
>
> 2\. Fantastic service—meets deadlines, very responsive to texts, emails, and calls.
>
> 3\. Always provides multiple design options. We tell her what we are thinking, we collaborate on ideas, she then proposes numerous options, including choices we simply didn’t have the expertise to imagine.
>
> 4\. East Coast Design has established relationships with trusted carpenters, painters, handymen, and all trades necessary to complete the job.
>
> 5\. My office, my home and my mother’s home are charming, beautiful and comfortable.  Diana made that happen, and the path to get there was a pleasure.
>
> We give East Coast Design and Diana our highest recommendation.

**★★★★★ — Jean F. Doucette, Jan. 2021**

> Working with Diana James and her team at East
> Coast Design has been exciting. She is talented and
> Very professional. She makes her clients feel special, and very much a part of final decisions.
> The result is a most satisfactory outcome-one
> that the client is thrilled with the completed project.
> Her contractors are perfectionists and  a pleasure to work with. Diana James is beautiful and a delightful
> designer.

**Comment from Living Swell:**

> Thank you Jean. It has been my immense pleasure working with you over the last 4 years!

**★★★★★ — ajgiven, Jan. 2021**

> Diana is a professional, timely, and a super interior decorator. Her method of listening and drawing schematics for her clients is very good. She has a great eye and completed our entire first floor and bathroom redesign without glitches. I was very happy working with her. My husband, our children, and our friends have raved about her work with me.
>
> Our home design is a classy, modern, beach look. We used beautiful blues and a blue green grass wallpaper on one of the walls. I ordered new, special order, rugs and it was well worth it. These details and our new curtains rounded out our new pieces and some older furniture.

**Comment from Living Swell:**

> Thanks so much Mandy. You know your palette is my absolute fav!! Those chill blues are everything, so glad you're happy with the result.

**★★★★★ — HU-250001706, Nov. 2020**

> We loved working with Diana. Diana has a natural talent. She has very creative, fresh ideas and she  presented many options for our tastes. Diana and her team are very responsive and live up to their commitments. She has access to so many materials, furniture and product and has strong relationships with reliable contractors.  It’s been a very smooth and gratifying experience working with Diana to design our home. My husband and I recommend her highly.

**★★★★★ — lisa kaplan, March 2018**

> Diana has been super helpful and flexible as we have navigated the update of our kitchen. Her style is impeccable and she has a real knack for interior decorating.
> Additionally, Diana's response time to any and all questions I had was always immediate.
> She is a pleasure to work with and I would hire Diana again and recommend her to my friends

**★★★★★ — Anne LaGrippe, March 2018**

> Diana always has the BEST ideas!  She recently helped design a room at my son's home and it's perfect!  Diana worked with me on an extensive project in my Back Bay condo and I was delighted!

**★★★★ — Michelle Penny, March 2018**

> My project with Diana is still in progress, she is a knowledgeable designer, when we met we clicked straight way. She took time to get to know us and listened to our needs and ideas.  It was clear when she bought the fabric choices for the window treatments that she had thought carefully about what I would like and more importantly what I would never have thought about. I am looking forward to seeing the finished project.

**★★★★★ — Edward Linne, Oct. 2017**

> We have a 1950's colonial that we upgraded by removing walls and adding sliders, windows and a deck. We wanted an urban feel to the environment in our home.Diana was able to understand what we were trying to accomplish and was invaluable in helping us choose the design schemes, fixtures and furniture to create the style we wanted. That was ten years ago and we are still thrilled with the result.

**Comment from Living Swell:**

> Thanks so much Ed and Tracy!! It was and always is a pleasure doing business with and seeing you!

**★★★★★ — Mark Mediate, Oct. 2017**

> Diana has done an outstanding job at both my office and my home.  Working with East Coast Design Inc. was effortless..  I highly recommend East Coast Design!

**Comment from Living Swell:**

> Thank you Mark! It has been my pleasure to work with you over the last few years.

## Selected projects

- [Calming Coastal](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/calming-coastal-pj-vj~7343465)
  - Location: Marblehead, MA
  - Photos: 27
  - Description: A summer "cottage" on Marblehead Neck is transformed into a gracious home for family and friends with updated furnishings, lighting and window treatments. With an updated kitchen and eating area, perfect for entertaining on the coast.
- [Inviting Mid Century](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/inviting-mid-century-pj-vj~7577249)
  - Location: Marblehead, MA
  - Photos: 10
  - Description: This mid-century home exudes its own sense of humor as well as the homeowners with its bright use of color and mix of materials. Soft pastels in rich textiles play against modern furniture lines to create a light atmosphere in the space, while rich wall coverings ground each room.
- [Living Swell Boutique and Design Studio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/living-swell-boutique-and-design-studio-pj-vj~2239987)
  - Location: Marblehead, MA
  - Photos: 18
  - Description: Retail boutique and Design Studio offering complete interior design services from remodeling to furnishings selections, and life style brand offering hand curated selections of luxurious lighting, one of a kind accessories, table ware, furniture, rugs and more..
- [Classic North Shore](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/classic-north-shore-pj-vj~7343463)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 12
  - Description: A full renovation that included expanded the footprint of the house to include an immense professional cook's kitchen opening to a family friendly space for entertaining and relaxing. Custom cabinetry and millwork, redesigned fireplace, expansive skylights and updated furnishings and classic hues of blue bring a breath of fresh air to this coastal home.
- [Modern Design on the Coast](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-design-on-the-coast-pj-vj~7343469)
  - Location: Beverly, MA
  - Photos: 17
- [Talk of the Townhouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/talk-of-the-townhouse-pj-vj~7581963)
  - Location: Boston, MA
  - Photos: 23
  - Description: A collection of renders illustrating the vision for our project in Boston's South End and initial photos of the living room. You can see how the vision is created alongside the final installation. We will highlight the important architectural details through out the home with paint, wall paper and elegant furnishings and lighting throughout the year. Creating life-like renders allows our clients to visualize the spaces to scale with great accuracy.
- [A Place to Recharge](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/a-place-to-recharge-pj-vj~7573176)
  - Location: Lynnfield, MA
  - Photos: 13
  - Description: The renders show the design intent for this major renovation we recently finished. We designed a 2 story primary bedroom ensuite space where there was once an expansive "party room". Creating a private retreat for the home owners that boosts an 2 story space with 2 floors of custom closets, spa bathroom with a green wall and bedroom with a step out patio to the pool area. We used natural and sustainable finishes throughout and the furnishings and lighting provides the zen like, Bali vibe we were…
- [Reimagined Traditional](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/reimagined-traditional-pj-vj~7343478)
  - Location: Melrose, MA
  - Photos: 26
- [Super Yacht Redesign](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/super-yacht-redesign-pj-vj~6490002)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 19
  - Description: Refurnishing and refreshing the interiors of a 230' yacht anchored in the Mediterranean. Our design team designed and sourced all finishes which included upholstering all outdoor furniture and built ins, refurnishing all owner's interiors with bedding, pillows, rugs, accessories, tableware and furniture.
- [Nautical Dreams](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/nautical-dreams-pj-vj~7343473)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 13
  - Description: Fun performance fabrics in citrus hues created a warm, nautical vibe for this newly built Sabre 35 built in coastal Maine. We selected the finishes throughout and designed every area with elegance to function as a comfortable getaway on the sea.
- [Back Bay Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/back-bay-renovation-pj-vj~3112884)
  - Location: Boston, MA
  - Photos: 5
- [Coastal Cools](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/coastal-cools-pj-vj~6120543)
  - Location: Marblehead, MA
  - Photos: 22
- [Marblehead Beach Style Home Staging](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/marblehead-beach-style-home-staging-pj-vj~299932)
  - Location: Marblehead, MA
  - Photos: 8
- [Oceanside Zen Custom Millwork](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oceanside-zen-custom-millwork-pj-vj~1653462)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 8
  - Description: A complete design/build project involving a built in bar, media unit and custom millwork and lighting.
- [New England Home Perspectives Feature](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/new-england-home-perspectives-feature-pj-vj~5609667)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 2
  - Description: The Editor of New England Home Magazine asked that I design a Lady's Library. Shown here are my thoughts and resources for creating a stylish and feminine room.
- [Brookline Staging project](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/brookline-staging-project-pj-vj~1687777)
  - Location: Brookline, MA
  - Photos: 6
- [Beacon Hill](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/beacon-hill-pj-vj~877923)
  - Location: Boston, MA
  - Photos: 2

[See all 17 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/living-swell-pfvwus-pf~126006928)

## Video

- [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/1164512893.m3u8?s=c93dd3fcbbf35a782b435d63801687fb8a879ebb&oauth2_token_id=1384357804)

## Frequently Asked Questions

**What types of interior design projects do you specialize in (full-home, single room, remodel support)?**
As a full-service interior design firm, we specialize in comprehensive projects, transforming entire homes or significant spaces. Our focus is on creating beautiful environments with sophisticated functionality, ensuring every detail contributes to a cohesive and elegant design. We handle everything from initial concept to final installation, making your design journey seamless.

**Do you work with contractors and architects during renovations?**
Absolutely! As a full-service interior design firm, we frequently collaborate with contractors and architects during renovations. We believe a strong partnership with these professionals is crucial for a successful project, ensuring that the design vision is executed flawlessly and efficiently from concept through completion. Our goal is to make the entire process smooth for you.

**Do you manage the project through installation and styling?**
Yes, we manage your project comprehensively through installation and styling. As a full-service interior design firm, our commitment extends beyond design concepts to overseeing every detail. We even have an in-house workroom that produces custom drapery, pillows, and more, ensuring a seamless and perfectly executed final look for your space.

**Do you work on luxury or high-end homes?**
Yes, we frequently work on homes that require a high level of sophistication and detail. Our firm is known for creating beautiful spaces with sophisticated functionality, which naturally aligns with the expectations of luxury and high-end residences. We pride ourselves on delivering bespoke designs that are both elegant and perfectly tailored to our clients' discerning tastes.

**Do you offer full-service interior design or design-only services?**
We are exclusively a full-service interior design firm. Our approach means we handle every aspect of your project, from initial concept development and space planning to material selection, custom furnishings, and final installation and styling. We believe this comprehensive approach delivers the most cohesive and exceptional results for our clients.

*FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.*

## Ideabooks

- [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/126287083/list/wish-list) — 1 idea
- [Soley St](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/135294673/list/soley-st) — 4 ideas
- [East Coast Design Inc](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/92873431/list/east-coast-design-inc) — 32 ideas
- [shea](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/83768581/list/shea) — 4 ideas
- [DeMArtino](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/68394694/list/demartino) — 3 ideas
- [Griffin Law](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/56288478/list/griffin-law) — 16 ideas
- [serra living room](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/50623952/list/serra-living-room) — 16 ideas
- [serra wall unit](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/50623181/list/serra-wall-unit) — 28 ideas
- [Pitman Rd. renovation ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/20495243/list/pitman-rd-renovation-ideas) — 110 ideas
- [LaGrippe](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/30493773/list/lagrippe) — 13 ideas
- [Pompadour](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/29587451/list/pompadour) — 2 ideas

[See all 11 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/diana-james)

---

*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-14.*